Sideboard dish 1717 - 1718

This impressive sideboard dish was made by Lewis Mettayer, a silversmith active in the late 17th and early 18th centuries. It’s crafted from a substantial amount of silver, weighing over 7 kilograms, and the dish's scale makes it a testament to the wealth of its owner. The material itself is central to understanding the object. Silver, as a precious metal, immediately speaks to status. But it's not just the inherent value of the material; it’s also the labor involved. The dish would have been raised and shaped by hand, with intricate details meticulously chased and engraved. This required considerable skill, time, and workshop organization. The fluted edge and central coat of arms suggest a commission for a wealthy family or individual. The dish embodies a specific moment in the history of luxury goods. It’s an object that bridges craft and commerce, artistry and industry. When we consider the social relations that made this object possible, we gain a richer understanding of its value.